Life as a Blogger and Part-Time Reseller With a 9-to-5 Job: Finding Balance Without the Stress

Hello, friends,

I hope you’re having a lovely day. Grab your favorite coffee and a pastry, and let’s settle in for a little chat.

My mental alarm went off at 6 a.m. this morning, and as usual, I eased into the day with a quick stretch before getting ready. I made my bed, headed downstairs, and before the rest of the house woke up, I spent some quiet time working on the projects that have been bringing me so much joy lately.

Life feels full these days. Between my 9-to-5 job, blogging, reselling, and creating my monthly snail mail club, there is always something waiting to be done. But I’m learning that being busy doesn’t have to mean being stressed.

Getting Back Into Reselling

I’ve been a part-time reseller since 2012, although I took a step back last year to focus on other things. Recently, I’ve been slowly easing my way back into it, and it has felt exciting to reconnect with something I genuinely enjoy.

This morning’s priority was photographing inventory. I managed to photograph around twenty items that I’ll be listing throughout the week. Most of what I sell is gently worn clothing, though I occasionally pick up men’s pieces, children’s clothing, and home décor finds from local thrift stores.

Over the years, my sourcing style has changed quite a bit. These days, I’m much more intentional about what I bring home. I’m drawn to high-quality, natural fabrics and timeless pieces that fit the fisherman, Ralph Lauren, coastal grandmother, cottage, country, and granola aesthetics.

Right now, I’ve mostly been “shopping my own closet” and letting go of the overflow of clothing that no longer serves me. It feels refreshing to simplify while also giving beautiful pieces a second life.

Lately, I’ve also been considering adding clothing items to my online shop alongside my other offerings. I’d love to hear your thoughts—would you be interested in seeing curated vintage-inspired clothing in my store?

If you haven’t visited my storefront yet, I recently launched my snail mail club, and September’s theme is Home. You’ll also find a few extras, including books I’ve loved, sticker sheets, and other small treasures. Many of the items are available for the cost of shipping alone.

A Cozy Day in the Kitchen

After photographing clothes all morning, my stomach reminded me that breakfast was long overdue.

Today’s breakfast was mochi ube pancakes with crispy bacon, and they were absolutely delicious. One of my goals this season is to spend more time in the kitchen, especially now that I finally have a KitchenAid mixer sitting on my counter.

I’ve wanted one for years, and I’m convinced that having it nearby is all the motivation I need to bake more often.

The plan for today includes:

• Chocolate chip walnut cookies

• Double chocolate brownies (if inspiration strikes)

• Homemade meatballs and spaghetti

• Warm garlic bread

There’s something comforting about spending a day cooking and baking at home, especially after a busy workweek.

Creating and Rediscovering My Creativity

One of the most exciting projects I’m working on right now is my next snail mail package.

My mind has been overflowing with ideas, and while I’m keeping some of the details a surprise, I can honestly say that creating again has brought so much joy into my life.

As I’ve gotten older, I’ve realized how much I missed drawing, painting, and making things with my hands. Somewhere between raising a family, working, and handling everyday responsibilities, I forgot how grounding creativity could be.

Now, I’m intentionally making space for those hobbies again.

Whether it’s designing snail mail, journaling, or simply doodling on a quiet afternoon, creating helps me slow down and reconnect with myself.

Learning to Protect My Time

I’m not someone who plans every minute of the day. Most of the time, I do my best and let things unfold naturally.

Of course, there are days when my to-do list is longer than the hours I have, but I’m learning not to be discouraged when everything doesn’t get done. There is always tomorrow.

Today, my 9-to-5 job called because they were short-staffed, and for the first time in a long while, saying no came easily.

Protecting our time can feel uncomfortable, especially when we’re used to always saying yes. But time off is valuable. Rest is valuable. Spending time with family, pursuing hobbies, and simply enjoying life matters too.

Life gets busy, but it doesn’t always need to feel stressful.

Why I Continue Blogging

For me, blogging has become so much more than sharing photos or writing weekly updates.

This little corner of the internet is my journal. It’s a place where I can document my journey toward aging gracefully and invite you along for the ride.

Here, I share pieces of my everyday life—reselling adventures, camping trips, travel stories, home projects, health and wellness, creativity, and all the lessons that come with entering a new chapter.

I hope that by sharing my experiences honestly, you’ll feel inspired to slow down, embrace creativity, and make space for the things that matter most.

Thank you for spending a few minutes of your day with me.

Before you go, I’d love to hear from you in the comments: How do you balance work, hobbies, and rest? And if you’re a fellow reseller or creative, what project are you working on right now?

Don’t forget to follow along for more stories about simple living, blogging, reselling, creativity, and finding joy in the everyday moments.

Susan ❤️

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